NYC Arts Cypher blackbook and bboy battles drop this weekend

View full sizeCourtesy of NYC Arts CypherBlack book artists are encouraged to bring their "masterpieces" the NYC Arts Cypher in Stapleton for a shot at cash and prizes.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Hip hop, your roots will be showing.

The NYC Arts Cypher pays homage to two of the cornerstones of hip-hop culture at its “All City Blackbook Show: Da Battlegrounds Edition,” on Nov. 13. Doors open at 4 p.m.

The event celebrates the scene that keeps street artists in exhibition spaces — and out of legal trouble — with a blackbook competition, plus a bboy, aka breakdancing, contest.

“It’s a fusion of bboy culture and graffiti. It’s kind of the first of its kind,” says Charlie Balducci, founder of the nonprofit Arts Cypher. He advises: “Bring your best moves and the dopest blackbooks to contend for cash and prizes!”

Black book masters should bring in their most excellent “piece book,” aka well-thought-out art as opposed to “throw up” quick shots. The best will score a small cash prize and schwag from Scrap Yard, a Manhattan graffiti supply store.